Middle Eastern pioneer, extreme sports fanatic and pretty decent securities lawyer, Camille Abousleiman currently practises at the London arm of Dewey & LeBoeuf

Why did you become a lawyer?

I had no choice! My father was a lawyer. His brothers are lawyers. My sister is a lawyer.

Who has been the biggest influence on your career?

My dad. His approach to law was more public service, less corporate. He viewed the law as a mission and a calling to help the less fortunate. The other is Berge Setrakian, a senior partner in our New York office. He offered me my first job in 1982 and my current job 25 years later.

What's your proudest professional moment?

There are two. The first was in 1987, when the chairman of my then firm told me that I made partner, after four and a half years of practice, and that I was the youngest partner in the 100-year history of the firm. The second is to have contributed significantly to the launch and subsequent development of capital markets in the Middle East.

…and worst day on the job?

There have been many challenging days, including trying to close a bond issue for a sovereign in the Middle East right after 9/11 when the lead manager had offices in the World Trade Center and did not know the fate of some of the staff working on the transaction.

Aside from your own firm, which lawyer do you most admire and why?

I have been hugely impressed with some of the QCs I have had the opportunity to work with. They are able to absorb and distil an enormous quantity of information in a very short period of time and come across in court as having spent months working on the file. Robin Potts and Charles Flint have made a lasting impression.

What's your strongest characteristic… and worst trait?

My ability to solve problems and get transactions closed in difficult markets… worst is my impatience and, at times, my abrasiveness.

What's the toughest ethical/moral dilemma your job has ever presented you with?

Having been offered the opportunity to work on transactions in a country I consider to be unfriendly towards Lebanon. I had to tell some big clients that I could not represent them in transactions in that country.

Who is Dewey's funniest partner?

Arthur Marriott. In addition to being a great performer in court, he is quite a character.

What most annoys you about the legal profession?

The pomposity of some lawyers and their belief that raising the most issues possible in a transaction is in the best interests of clients. Also, I believe there is a flaw in the business model of law firms. Partners work hard, build the goodwill of the brand over a long period of time and, in the end, are lucky if they get their capital back. They do not get the benefit of owning and being able to sell equity as in more traditional business models. It's about time for law firms to consider going public.

Most memorable deal you ever have worked on and why?

This must be my 13 years of work for Lebanon. I have had the privilege to work on every capital market issuance for the country since 1994, despite many changes of government. Being able to assist your own country gives special pleasure.

Why should ambitious young lawyers join your firm?

The excitement of working in new markets and first-of-a-kind transactions. The flexible approach to the practice. You do not get pigeon-holed in one area for your entire career.

What will be the most significant market trend in terms of your practice area over the next 12 months?

Surviving the hurricane in the financial markets. While emerging markets and especially the Middle East and the CIS countries are less affected than other markets, the next 12 months will present challenges.

Do you see yourself having a career outside law?

I was tempted a few times with offers from investment banks. I am now glad I did not accept any. I was also asked to be the director of sports at a resort in the Caribbean. I am probably too old for this but a few years on a windy beach somewhere sounds tempting.

What the hell is kite surfing?

It is being hooked to a kite on a windy day while standing on a small board on the water. Unfortunately, the kite has a mind of its own and doesn't always follow instructions – not unlike lawyers.

Ever break anything extreme sporting?

The count so far for kite surfing is two broken fingers and one permanent gash on my back. The count so far for skiing is various injuries as a result of being caught in four avalanches. I'd prefer this to going out following a heart attack in the office reviewing an offering circular.

What's your favourite cheese?

Roquefort.